Joseph L. Rizzo, 75, of Fredonia, passed away Friday evening (Dec 9, 2022) at home, after an illness. The family would like to take a moment to thank the nursing staff at Brooks Memorial Hospital for their compassion to both Joe and his family during the time there, as well as the nurses and aids at Chautauqua Hospice.
Joe was born January 16th, 1947 in Brocton, the son of the late Louis Sr. and Josephine (Manzella) Rizzo.
He was a longtime resident of Fredonia, and a parishioner of Holy Trinity Church, along with a member of the Northern Chautauqua Conservation Club
Joe was most notably known for years as the owner of Xpress Screen Printing in Fredonia. He was proud of the many accomplishments while its steward, from growing it into a respectably sized company, to employing many different people, along with working with multiple charities, including Hunters Hope and United Way, as well as setting up a scholarship for many years at Fredonia High School for deserving young students. He enjoyed working with his sons in the business before finally retiring.
He worked tirelessly to showcase the value of hard work. His oldschool mantra of shaking somebody’s hand, looking them in the eye, and telling them something would be done was the hallmark of who he was. You could count on Joe that if he said he was going to do something, he did it.
Mr. Rizzo was a passionate Harley Davidson enthusiast and rider, where along with his late wife, Martha, would go on excursions locally, as well as across various parts of the country.
Joe is survived by one son, Chad (Kristen) Rizzo of Mansfield, Texas, along with two stepsons, Timothy (Cheryl) Alessi of Charleston, SC, and Todd (Jennifer) Alessi of Charlotte, NC, along with multiple grandchildren and nieces.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Martha (DePasquale); a brother, Louis Jr; a son, Todd (Angi) Rizzo; and a stepson Thomas (Carolyn) Alessi.
Joe was unapologetically authentic for who he was. He lived his life on his terms, and in honor and respect of that life, relatives and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Mass which will be celebrated on Saturday, January 7th, 2023 at 10:00am at Holy Trinity Church. Joe asked that if you feel comfortable to do so, no suits or fancy attire. There will be no calling hours. A celebration of life will be held at Frednia Beaver Club immediately following the Mass. In lieu of flowers, please make a memorial donation to the charity of your choice. Arrangements are by the McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home.
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